Technical Writer

Result of ServiceThe objective is to enhance the accessibility and impact of the ISPAR platform through effective knowledge communication strategies. This role will translate the platform's technical complexity into clear, user-centric documentation and learning resources that empower policymakers and stakeholders across the Arab region. The position will bridge technical development and practical application by creating compelling content that facilitates understanding of index simulations, supports capacity development, and ultimately contributes to evidence-based policymaking in ESCWA Member States. Work LocationRemote/Hybrid Expected duration6 months Duties and ResponsibilitiesBackground: The Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) forms part of the United Nations Secretariat and, like the other regional commissions, operates under the supervision of the United Nations Economic and Social Council. ESCWA comprises 21 Arab countries in Western Asia and North Africa. ESCWA provides a framework for the formulation and harmonisation of sectoral policies for member countries, a platform for congress and coordination, a home for expertise and knowledge, and an information observatory. ESCWA activities are coordinated with the divisions and main offices of the Headquarters of the United Nations, specialised agencies, and international and regional organizations, including the League of Arab States and its subsidiary bodies, and the Gulf Cooperation Council. This position is located in the Decision-Support and Data Science Division (DSDSD). DSDSD is part of ESCWA’s broader modernization and innovation efforts, providing advanced analytics and decision-support services within ESCWA, other UN entities, and Member States. Aligned with the UN 2.0 agenda and grounded in strategic foresight, DSDSD leverages data-driven insights, emerging technologies, and scenario-based planning to anticipate trends and proactively inform policymaking and operations. This position is part of the implementation of the Development Account Project titled “Dynamic simulators to address ranking deficiencies of international indices platforms in the Arab region” (T15 Project). The project supports the development, documentation, and dissemination of the ISPAR platform and its associated digital tools. These tools aim to enhance evidence-based policymaking and strategic planning across ESCWA Member States by enabling simulation of policy reforms and their impacts on international rankings and development outcomes. The Technical Writer will contribute to the accessibility, usability, and uptake of these tools through high-quality content, training materials, and user support documentation. The Technical Writer will work in the Computational Economics Unit and will report to the head of the Data Science team and the Chief of DSDSD. Responsibilities: Within delegated authority, the Technical Writer will be responsible for the following duties: - Supports the identification, structuring, and documentation of international best practices relevant to the simulation tools and policy areas covered by ISPAR. - Develops and edits user manuals, quick-start guides, and structured documentation to support the Index Simulator for Policymakers in the Arab Region (ISPAR). - Translates technical methodologies and simulation logic into accessible, well-structured content suitable for non-technical audiences, including policymakers, civil servants, and regional stakeholders. - Drafts onboarding and interface text for platform features, including AI-guided wizards and decision-support tools. - Collaborates with data scientists, economists, and developers to gather and validate content related to indicators, indices, and performance simulations. - Supports the e-learning component of ISPAR by preparing scripts, annotated training slides, interactive exercises, and facilitator guides. - Contributes to the development of a self-paced online course by drafting learning material tailored to various user profiles. - Prepares or edits analytical briefs, policy note templates, FAQs, glossaries, and best practice summaries derived from comparative research. - Supports quality assurance of all editorial outputs and coordinates with the communications team to ensure content consistency and accessibility. - If required, assists in documenting artificial intelligence components and knowledge graph functionalities that extend ISPAR’s capabilities. Qualifications/special skillsAdvanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in communication, public policy, instructional design, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. All candidates must submit a copy of the required educational degree. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in technical writing, instructional content development, public policy communication, or knowledge management is required. Experience working on data-intensive or simulation platforms, decision-support tools, or indices and indicator frameworks is desirable. Experience developing content for online learning or training materials is desirable. Experience working in international development, economics, or policy reform contexts is desirable. LanguagesEnglish and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat; and Arabic is a working language of ESCWA. For this position, fluency in English is required. Knowledge of Arabic and/or French is desirable. Note: “Fluency” equals a rating of ‘fluent’ in all four areas (speak, read, write, and understand) and “Knowledge of” equals a rating of ‘confident’ in two of the four areas. Additional InformationNot available. No FeeTHE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.